2008 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
